Life's Moments

It's been ten months since the course of our lives were forever changed.  I'm not sure I will ever publicly share what happened but it has forever changed me as a person and my girls' lives, in every aspect.  

A few weeks ago, I was at a point where I was more than overwhelmed by so many daily roles and honestly I was crumbling as a woman, a mother, a friend.  Those were some of my hardest days and I'll always remember when another single mom reached out on Instagram and said I was encouraging to them because I looked like I was able to get it all done.  I was touched by that message, but that was so far from the truth.  Behind those little squares there was so much more going on.  My girls are my greatest accomplishment and I want them to know how much I love them and how much they mean to me.  Sometimes it's a struggle to get out of the clouds but you'll get there and be so much stronger for it. Today, I want to share a few things for anyone else struggling to make it through their day, feeling like they are not enough, that they're in the thick of it... it does get better and there are brighter days ahead.  Positive thinking changes everything and it's so worth it. 

A few weeks ago I started working again and it was perfect timing.  I hate to say that going back to work gives me a break, because I know how hard working moms work, but for me it has given me a quick breather.  I have always loved being a teacher and always feel right at home in the classroom. At some point in the near future I hope to return full time to work, but for right now it's a perfect schedule for me.  It wasn't until I started working that I realized how underwater I was feeling.  As a mother of very young children, it's so easy to forget to take care of yourself and those overwhelming feelings slowly build up until there's such an immense weight on your shoulders that it hits so hard.  Besides working and tutoring after school, I'm taking a million workshops, CTLE seminars, content tests and taking a course to fulfill my certificate requirements.  I swear I've never been so busy.  Every hour seems to be consumed right now and I'm actually enjoying it.  As cliche as it sounds, some true hustling is going on.  As the sole parent 99% of the time, I am so thankful to my family and friends who are constantly part of my village to help with the girls. If you're in a similar position, I can't tell you how important it is to have good people in your life. 

For a very long time, it was so hard for me to see my worth.  Some days are still a struggle.  After a while your vision of self-worth gets chipped away and you start believing what you're hearing and seeing and that is a hard thing to change.  Probably one of the hardest.  When you think you're not pretty enough, smart enough, thin enough, special enough...whatever you're feeling, just remember that you have little people looking up to you.  With two little girls, I am constantly reinforcing that they are smart, strong, beautiful inside and out and I never share my own inner thoughts because I never want them judging themselves like that.  That is why I'm being so honest here because if you feel the same way, remember that you are worth it. 

Yes.  I just love that.  Looking back at how far I've come over these past months (read: a lot longer) I can finally see that I've handled a thousand things, in a thousand different ways and I am proud of it.    Set those standards high, ladies.  It will be worth it.  Thank you for allowing me to share a bit of my story and I hope you will reach out if you need.  It takes a village.  XOXO

The Best Products for Your Transitioning Baby

Charlotte is now 11 months old and a few months ago I found myself wavering back and forth between the new baby stage and older baby stage, with everything from feeding to sleeping to bath time.  So today, I'm sharing a list of my must haves for a transitioning baby that I know you'll love, too. 

DockATot - Our DockATot has been a life saver for us.  Due to Charlotte rolling over extremely early, we were at a loss of what to do with her at night because she was swaddled, yet still rolling over while her arms were tucked in.  We started with the DockATot Deluxe, which was comfortable for her until she was about 10 months old then it started to get a bit tight.  Many of you were asking for suggestions on what to use once your little one outgrew the DockATot Deluxe and I can't recommend the DockATot Grand enough! The Grand will last your little one all the way through toddlerhood.  Trust me, Olivia fit perfectly in it and she'll be four in a few short weeks! I love that the Grand creates a comforting space for her, yet she's free to move around.  She hasn't always been the greatest sleeper and I swear the Grand has been a lifesaver.  She's so much happier and much more rested, which makes for a happier mommy, too!  If you sign up for emails, you'll receive a coupon for $10 off and seriously it is worth every penny.  Cost per use and your sanity - so worth it!! 

Freshly Picked  - Freshly Picked moccs have been a favorite of ours since day one for both girls.  With little teetering feet, these are so great for little ones learning to walk.  I love the simplicity yet sturdiness of them and they are so cute for any occasion! These mary janes are the sweetest new style!!!  I can just see these as the perfect accessory to Easter dresses! 

The Stair Barrier - Two words: crawling baby.  There's nothing worse than a baby gate that you either can't open yourself, is super ugly, doesn't match the rest of your house or doesn't work correctly.  Can you tell I'm not a fan of traditional baby gates?  If you're like me, look no further than the Stair Barrier.  This is the prettiest baby gate and there are two configurations available, which is perfect for those looking for banister to banister or wall to banister.  They also come in a variety of sizes and great designs to match your home's decor.  My sister got the Beige Geo gate and it is so pretty yet so functional and creates the perfect safe barrier for little ones crawling around. Check out my instagram for some fun live videos to see what Emilie & Charlotte think of their new stair barrier.  Spoiler alert: they can't go past it ;) 

Finn + Emma - Finn + Emma is my go-to for the softest organic pajamas for the girls and wooden toys for Charlotte.  Babies put everything in their mouths, especially those who are teething, and they have some of the best wooden teethers I've seen. All of their toys are made from an Indian hardwood, finished with natural vegetable seed wax and then stuffed with dried beans.  I love that Charlotte can happily chomp away on a natural, safe toy.  This hedgehog rattle is one of my favorites! 

The Baby Cubby  - The Baby Cubby is for every parent out there who has ever felt overwhelmed or discouraged about becoming a parent. It is my go-to shop for baby shower gifts.  Baby Cubby price matches - even Amazon!! and offers free shipping for orders over $49. Their team is made up of parents who have been there, we know what it’s like and we are passionate about encouraging, inspiring, and reminding parents how amazing they are and how important their role is.  Their customer service is excellent and I love that they do all the research for you and sell only the best products that they truly believe in.  The list goes on and on for all of the great products they carry, but some of my favorites for a transitioning baby include the ezpz mats - so great for babies who are feeding themselves, yet messy little eaters who throw their plates, puj bath treads - for slippery little ones who love to splash around, and the Boon Flair - super stylish, easy to clean highchair.  Definitely your go-to shop for your next baby shower gift - you won't be disappointed! 

I hope this list helps you out to learn some of my favorite products for your transitioning little one!  What are some of your must have products? 

The MOST comfortable leggings EVER + LuLaRoe Giveaway!

You guys!  Have you or have you not found a pair of the most comfortable pants ever in life? If you have, you'll be super excited for the giveaway at the end of this post. If you haven't, you neeeed to try LuLaRoe and be double excited for the chance to win a pair of your own! 

LuLaRoe - where fashion meets comfort.  This video shows the production process and its so cool to see how all of the pieces are designed, cut, sewed, and shipped off to consultants.  I can't imagine how fun it is to open those boxes to see all of the goodies and designs that came!! 

{ @thebirdsnestblog }

My friend Jess sent me the prettiest pink pair and let's just say it was love at first try.  Seriously, I'd wear these every day, all-day-long. I love that they are not see through (one of my biggest concerns with leggings), buttery soft, and wash so well! Some of the smaller, more simple patterns are definitely something I could get into with a solid top.  If you're looking for your "unicorn", aka a pattern that you just need to have and are searching for, follow along on Facebook and check out Jess' LuLaRoe VIP group! She has so many styles to choose from and so many pretty patterns! Inventory is constantly changing, which makes it even more fun to follow along to see what comes out next!  She also has super fun giveaways that you won't want to miss.  Some of my favorite styles besides the leggings are the Amelia (with pockets!) and the Randy tees.  This chart below is the best to describe each style to choose from.  I love that you can dress these pieces up as much as you can dress them down.  The kid options are so cute and so comfortable for them, too! 

Jess and I have teamed up to give away a mystery pair of OS or TC Leggings and I cannot wait to see who the lucky winner is!! To enter the giveaway, complete the Rafflecopter below.  We'll be checking to make sure the winner has completed the entries and liked/followed both LuLaRoe Jessica Reynolds VIPs and The Birds Nest :) 

Giveaway ends Friday, March 24 and the lucky winner will be contacted shortly after.  Open to US residents only.  Good luck, friends!! Thank you so much to Jess for this fun giveaway!! XOXO a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Yummiest "Peanut Butter Pie" Breakfast Recipe

You guys, I cannot get enough of this!  Today I'm sharing the easiest, yummiest, ever-so-satistfying peanut butter pie recipe.  The catch is that its for breakfast!😱 A few weeks ago my sister texted me with a "best decision of my life" message... thinking it was about her kids, house, job etc I was so wrong - it was about peanut butter pie. Literally it tastes like peanut butter pie...in a bowl...for breakfast.  I die. Now, I've tried all sorts of Pinterest inspired recipes for overnight oats, "dessert" parfaits, etc.  This is legit and you will dream of making this again and again.  Especially if you're a mom because it's that easy and that delicious.  

Now, I'm not huge on measuring so we're going to just wing it...

Yummiest Breakast Peanut Butter Pie in a Bowl:

1/2 to 3/4 cup of your favorite plain Greek yogurt 

Rounded spoonful of peanut butter

A handful of chocolate chips 

1 tsp. brown sugar

Mix it all together and enjoy!  That's it.  It's that simple.  You can play around with how much you add of each ingredient to get the right consistency and sweetness for you.  I tend to throw about 5-6 chocolate chips in there and a sprinkle of brown sugar, for reference.  You could definitely prep this the night before and eat it to-go or have it in the fridge waiting for you.  Kind of like that first cup of coffee that you dream of.  Just me?  Anyway, make this.  Today.  Let me know what you think!  Follow along on my instastories for more quick recipes (@thebirdsnestblog) XOXO 

Top Five Favorite Farmhouse Style Bedrooms

I'm obsessed with Fixer Upper (who isn't?!) and one day, my dream is to own a big farmhouse style home styled by my inner Joanna Gaines.  While that might be a while down the road, I am always dreaming up new ways to decorate.  Today, I'm sharing some of my favorite farmhouse styled bedrooms.  

1.  Love Grows Wild

I love the faux beams, layered bedding, shiplap walls and overall coziness of this room! 

2.  Liz Marie Blog

I love Liz Marie Blog - everything she touches is amazing! My favorite parts of this bedroom are the chandelier, mirrors behind the nightstands and the layered bedding. 

3.  Dear Lillie

I like this mix of farmhouse meets glam.  I also like the moody gray on the walls mixed with bamboo shades and light, airy curtains. 

4.  Farmhouse for Four

I've had these lights in our garage for about three years...another project on the to-do list.  I love the simple, rustic look they bring to the bedroom.  Seriously one of my favorite Instagram feeds.  Everything is so beautiful! 

5.  Country Living

This is also from Farmhouse for Four but I couldn't resist this bedroom!  The beams, wallpaper accent wall, bench...so pretty!!

Thanks for stopping and following along with my favorite picks for a farmhouse style bedroom.  Next, I'll be sharing my favorite farmhouse inspired kitchens.  What are some of your favorite farmhouse looks?  

All the Details You Need to Host the Prettiest Baby Shower

This is the season of life where all of our friends are having babies, have newborns, or are newly expecting a little one.  Baby showers are one of my favorite events to plan and attend.  There's something so exciting about showering a mama-to-be, from all of the cute baby gifts and pretty decor to celebrating the upcoming new baby.  Today, I'm sharing my favorite shops to plan the prettiest baby shower that I just know you will love too! 

Baby Shower Invites - Paperless Post has hundreds of baby shower invites, each one prettier than the next!  I love that there is an option to send via email, as well as paper printed. Whatever your theme, Paperless Post has an invite for everything.  There are options for baby boys, baby girls, or a surprise!  Some of my favorites are below, including one for daddies-to-be!  They also have great invitations for birthday parties, holiday cards, and much more. 

I absolutely love this book themed one, so perfect if you chose to include a note for your guests to bring a book for baby's library!

You know a daddy-to-be would love this one to enjoy a day with friends.  

I love this floral themed invite - so pretty! 

I love the idea of a sip and see once the baby is born and this stork theme is too sweet!

Baby Shower Attire - PinkBlush has a great selection of maternity & women's clothing - so stylish and so affordable!  I love this polka dot dress for mamas-to-be and I'd love to wear this button sash dress as a guest. It's so fun to get all dressed up, isn't it?

Baby Shower Decor- I love party decorations and these sweet paper garlands are the perfect touch of color and can be used in the baby's nursery afterwards. Fun balloons and tissue garlands are always great options too.  I also love sweet favors such as these mini soy candles or sugar scrubs, just a little something that your guests can enjoy afterwards. You also can't go wrong with some pretty  floral centerpieces and a special diaper cake.

Baby showers are SO fun to plan! Thanks for reading along and I hope I inspired you to plan the prettiest one! XO

Simple Resolutions To Make Your Mind + Heart Happy

Happy New Year!  I hope you enjoyed your holidays with family, friends, and lots of yummy food!  I took a quick break to enjoy time with my little ones and I'm back feeling refreshed ;)  Today, I'm sharing some simple resolutions that are easy to keep while making you feel accomplished.  I'm not huge on resolutions and while some are thrown to the side at times, I normally try to be mindful of simple ones that make lives easier + more enjoyable. 

Be Organized 

Organization is something I crave and it makes my mind and heart happy.  Since having two busy little ones and being married to the most unorganized man ever (#truth), I have lost my ducks-in-a-row-mojo.  I'm striving to get it back and I know how much clarity and peace it brings to my life so this is my biggest resolution this year. My STARTplanner is legit, you guys.  There's literally a page and space for everything. Everything.  In the Hustle Daily Planner, everything from monthly finance spreadsheets, top three of the day to water goals are planned down to the hour in an organized, clean way.  This is exactly what I need to keep me on top of birthdays, groceries, tutoring schedules and everyday activities.  There's also a business edition, which would be so great for working mamas or those with their own small businesses.  Not only is it gorgeous, but the pages are so clean and organized in the best possible way.  You need this in your life!!  And one of you lucky ones get the chance to win one at the end of this post! 

Donate More

Ever since I read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, I've been inspired to donate more and get rid of things we don't use or need anymore.  Everything from toys to clothes to kitchen items, I've been taking car loads to the thrift store at our church.  Although at times I feel bad about giving certain things away (there's really no reason for attachment for most things but I always feel a tinge of guilt) I know they are going to someone in need and that makes me feel so good to help.  Afterwards, I feel like I can breathe so much easier.  I plan on doing a big purge of all of our clothes (hello eighty five thousand random t-shirts in Rob's drawers) and that alone will be so fulfilling.  I tend to be a "keeper" and really, who am I kidding?  I'm pretty sure I won't be wearing my going out tops from college anytime soon ;)  If you haven't read the book, I highly recommend it!

Cook More

For Christmas, I got Daphne Oz's new cookbook, The Happy Cook and I'm loving it.  I really enjoy cooking and while I cook often, I fall into the habit of making simple meals for Olivia and I if Rob isn't home or meals that are thrown together because I'm rushing after tutoring or being out for the day.  My plan is to try to meal plan more = less wasted food, more money saved, and to enjoy the cooking process.  Olivia loves to help in the kitchen and I hope to include her more as well.  In my STARTplanner, there's even a meal planning section so it couldn't be any easier to start now!

Be organized, donate, and cook more - my simple resolutions to make the mind + heart happy!  

Now, I can't wait to see who wins a brand new STARTplanner!!  Simply enter below and the winner will be notified by January 6, 2017.  Everyone who enters gets a free party download too!! If you're following along on Instagram, @thebirdsnestblog, be sure to comment with one goal for 2017 and score some extra entries on there as well! Winner must reside in the US. Good luck XOXO

ENTER TO WIN A START PLANNER HERE

Britax Car Seat + Other Practical Gift Ideas for Little Ones

Hi friends! Is anyone else freaking out that there's only two weeks left until Christmas?! I'm just about finished shopping for the girls and can't wait to buy some goodies to fill up their stockings. Today, I'll be keeping with the want, need, wear, read theme while I'm sharing some practical gifts that are perfect for little ones.  

*Need* Britax car seat for children of all ages - Britax is rated the #1 brand in safety technology and is such a great investment for your child.  A car seat is something you will likely use every day (multiple times a day for us most days) and it's so important that your child is in a safe, reliable car seat.  With free 1-2 day delivery on most orders, you can't go wrong!  Psst...this is a great gift idea for grandparents or relatives who are asking for suggestions. 

*Want* Toys - Of course your little ones want something to play with!  Some of my favorite toys for my girls are from MASProductionArts.  These are Montessori inspired materials and Waldorf learning toys.  I love that these are technology free (read:imagination) and love supporting other mamas through their small businesses. This princess math sorting game is right up Olivia's alley. 

*Wear* I love pajamas!  Cozy pajamas are always on the top of my Christmas list and I love the tradition of opening brand new pajamas on Christmas Eve in anticipation for Santa's arrival.  These and these are some of my favorites for staying super cozy during the cold nights. 

*Read* We absolutely love books in our house and Olivia's closet is overflowing with all of our favorites.  I rotate them out according to season/holiday and we love getting fresh, new books to enjoy together. Bookroo is a monthly subscription service which features board books or picture books, perfectly curated for your little one. They also come wrapped.  A Christmas miracle ;) 

We met Santa today and these are secretly my favorite pictures!  I love looking back on them and know one day the girls will laugh, too! I'm going to leave this little gem with you...

Happy Shopping! XOXO

This post is a partnership with Nakturnal.

Holiday Gift Guide - For Little Ones

Today I'm sharing my Holiday Gift Guide, specifically for little ones, and I can't wait to share some of my favorite small shops with you.  Sometimes it's so hard to know what to buy for infants, right?! I've complied a list of gifts that are both cute and practical...items that your little one will surely love! 'Tis the Season...

Joey Mae Handmade  - I absolutely love these bows!  All of the bows in Jennifer's shop are simple, classic and hand sewn.  Velvet and sailor bows are forever my weakness and these are so pretty.  Some of my favorites include the dark gold,  hunter green,  and red - perfect for the upcoming holidays! I love the sailor bows too, especially the berry,  chambray, and polka dots.  The quality is unsurpassed and each bow would be perfect the little lady in your life.  Joey Mae Handmade is also offering a great coupon code for 20% off your order - use code THEBIRDSNEST20 to stock up before the new year! 

Bannor Toys - Classic, hand crafted heirloom quality toys.  Each toy is made in the USA and created with organic wood, paint, and finish.  I love wooden toys and there's such a comfort knowing I'm giving my children something organic, hand crafted, free from chemicals and other harmful solvents.  Charlotte has this bunny teether and she loves it.  You can also throw it in the fridge or freezer for some cool relief for teething gums. My favorites for the holidays include their gingerbread rattle, wooden train ornament, and penguin teether.

Stella and Lu - The prettiest shop for blankets and lovey's for your little loves! You guys, there are so many gorgeous designs!! They have the softest backings ranging from minky, faux fur and llama! Some of my favorites for the holidays include the Christmas Tartan, Snow and Pine Triangles, and the Hot Pink Watercolor Floral.  The lovey's are the perfect size to throw in the diaper bag or snuggle up in the crib once they're a little older. A special little lovey is going in Charlotte's Christmas stocking.  Be sure to follow her on Instagram here for the cutest designs! 

Hemming Birds - A favorite shop of mine for bibs and burp clothes!  The cutest designs and they are so absorbent! The quality of their hand crafted designs shows and after multiple washes, they still look brand new!  I tend to put these on Charlotte as part of her outfit, not just for feedings, because they are just so cute.  My favorites include the little flamingos, honey bears, and the fairy dust.  Follow along with Hemming Birds on Instagram here.

Baby and The Fox - If your little one is teething, this is the shop for you!  The best quality teething necklaces and teethers.  I have this necklace and absolutely love it.  Charlotte loves it so much and will chew on it forever!  This teething toy is going in her Christmas stocking and I cannot wait until she sees it.  The beads are smooth silicone and vary in size and shape - perfect for little ones to explore and chomp down on.  Some of my other favorites include the hedgehog toy, silicone and wood teething necklace, and the sensory teether.  Follow along with the Baby and The Fox on Instagram here.  

Hot Bunz - Fresh, organic pants for little ones in oh so cute designs!! All HOTBUNZ pants are made with premium organic cotton that move with baby and stay in great shape.  Each pair is finished with a signature waistband and there are so many designs to choose from. I love that they feature a seamless front and back and are made from 100% certified organic cotton.  A few favorites of mine include the bee kind, sorbet onxy, and the twinkle - perfect for the holidays! Their luscious gift packaging makes this the perfect holiday gift!  Follow along with Hot Bunz on Instagram here.

I hope this holiday gift guide has inspired you to shop for some great gifts for your little ones and to shop small!  Would love to hear your picks! XO

'Tis the Season - Cookie Swap Blog Hop

Ho Ho Ho! I'm so excited to be a part of this Cookie Swap Blog Hop! My friend Katie over at Mrs. Watkins has organized such a fun recipe swap and I can't wait to try all of them out! Today, I'll be sharing our favorite Cream Cheese cookie recipe that you'll want to make over and over for the holidays.  

Olivia helped me bake these and they are so moist, stay perfectly soft for days, and are just sweet enough to enjoy one, two...or four;)  We frosted them with a variety of colored royal icing (confectioner's sugar + milk + food coloring) and decorated with our favorite festive sprinkles.  Hope you enjoy them as much as we did! Hint: Pin this chart for later! 

Now for the next stop on the Cookie Swap Blog Hop, head over to Christina's Blog to check out the recipe she's sharing for her Chocolate Crinkle Cookies - yum!!

Follow along with the other girls to read their yummy recipes, too!

Mrs. Watkins

Becoming The Stevens

Mom of Two Salums 

Happy Baking, friends! XO 

The Best Teething Necklace + Giveaway

Hi friends! Happy Black Friday! Hope you all enjoyed your Thanksgiving with friends and family and filled your plates with plenty of yummy food.  Thanksgiving is such a nice start to the entire holiday season and I am so excited that it's officially acceptable to be in full Christmas mode ;)  Every Black Friday, my dad and I go shopping and it's been our tradition for years.  My sister has also joined us the past few years and it's such a fun day.  I find myself finding tons of cute gifts for Olivia but I'm slightly panicking that I won't have much for the baby.  Babies are so hard to shop for, right?! I hope I'm not alone!  Charlotte is now seven months and teething like crazy so I knew I wanted to find her a cute + stylish teether, which brings me to the Baby and The Fox shop.  

You guys, there are SO many cute teething necklaces and teether toys in Kaitlyn's shop!  I'm picky about what I let the baby chew on and I was so happy to learn that all of the silicone beads used are made from food grade silicone, BPA and phthalate free, lead and cadmium free, and feature a break away clasp.  Cleaning is also a breeze and they are dishwasher safe!  There are so many different styles to choose from, each one featuring fun designs for your little ones to chew on and grab.  I was sent the neutral white nursing necklace and I absolutely love it.  It's simple and so pretty and would compliment any outfit for going out or staying in...including yoga pants ;) Some of my other favorites include the mint + marble , silicone + wood, and wine + wood necklaces.   

[Follow along on Instagram @thebirdsnestblog]

Baby and The Fox also has the cutest line of teether and sensory toys.  How cute is this fox?! That is going in Charlotte's stocking - she is going to love it!  I also love all of the other designs available - elephant, hedgehog, whale, camera, and owl. How fun is this toy? So great for sensory development.  

I am so excited that Kaitlyn is offering to give away one of her beautiful teething necklaces to one of you!  To enter, simply head over to my Instagram (@thebirdsnestblog) and follow myself + @babyandthefox and tag some of your best mama friends! Giveaway will run Nov 25 - Nov 27, ending at 11:59pm.  Winner will be contacted directly.  

If you can't wait to get your hands on these, use code blackfriday20 to save 20%! Good luck!! XOXO

Our Favorite, Easiest Baby Books (Psst...Free Book!)

Hi friends!

I'm the first to admit I'm awful at updating baby books.  Literally the worst. I feel bad that the girls will look back one day and realize this.  Poor Charlotte has about one page filled - oops!  I love looking through picture albums and to me, those are the best memories.  Which brings me to Chatbooks.

Chatbooks are little square books filled with the best memories.  I discovered Chatbooks when Olivia was a baby and they have been the best thing since well, baby books.  I love looking back through them and Olivia loves it too.  I make sure to include photos with their milestones and special days. 

Since the beginning, I've filled almost 12 books and I have so many more to order.  I chose the subscription service so I can just have a continuous order and I won't miss any!  I love to make them from my Instagram (@thebirdsnestblog) but you can also make them from photos you have on your phone or computer.  These will be great Christmas gifts for our family and friends.  

Chatbooks offers your first book free if you use this link, and I'll get a credit too.  Win, win! If you try it out, I'd love to hear how you like them!  Also, mamas unite if you are awful at updating baby books too ;) 

This post was in no way sponsored by Chatbooks.  I just love them so much and wanted to share! XOXO

Five on Friday.

Happy Friday, friends!  I am so looking forward to the weekend. We've had all sorts of beautiful weather for this time of year and it's been so nice to get outside with the kids.  We've been bouncing around to different parks and swinging right in our yard to soak up this sunshine before the true cold weather sets in. 

I've been trying to keep my shopping to a minimum with the holidays coming, both for the girls and myself, but these tees have been my favorite lately and at $5(!!) a shirt, I might need to break the shopping hiatus. 

Lip stain is something that had me somewhat hesitant because I thought it might be too much, too bright, and too permanent.  Boy was I wrong!  It's an absolute must have in my makeup routine for the day and it brightens everything up instantly.  So great when we've been having some sleepless nights around here from a certain baby who decides to party at 2am. My favorite is Tints & Sass Lip and Cheek Stain and it stays on all day long.  I like to apply a swipe of chapstick after to keep my lips more hydrated and to have more even color.  It's the prettiest pinkish red color, but not overpowering.  I love that I can apply it lightly before dropping Olivia at school or darker for a girls night out. 

Speaking of girls night, this Butternut Squash and Spinach Tortellini sounds so good and would be perfect for a fall dinner together.  Add some browned sausage or grilled chicken and I think it would be a hit with my hubby. 

I've been storing all sorts of Christmas ideas on my Pinterest boards and these are some great ones.  I tend to lean towards natural decor and I can't wait to try some of these ideas. Also, a holiday cheese board - I could eat that every day. 

Also, a head start to tomorrow's post... I'll be sharing all about our favorite non-traditional baby books.  Psst...you can get your first one free using this code.

Cheers to the weekend! XO

The Best Weekend Favorites

How is October already almost over?!  I'm ashamed to admit we're still in September on our calendar and have completely ignored October.  Guess I'll be starting with November soon enough ;)  Lately, I've been dreaming about decorating for Christmas - I just can't wait for the holidays to come this year.  I'm not sure if it's because it's Charlotte's first Christmas or that Olivia is older and it's becoming more magical for her or the fact that Pinterest is pouring over with fresh Christmas ideas that I'm loving.  I. Can't. Wait.  

{Current Inspiration via} 

Now onto some of my favorite picks this week, 

These bottle brush trees and this countdown calendar are both going in my cart.  PLUS, take an extra 10% off using code FALLHOME. 

How pretty are these plum Rockstar skinny jeans?  My favorite style, flattering with just the right amount of give. 

Baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast.  Probably the best brunch casserole ever created.  

Does this not look like the coziest bedroom ever?  Bedroom goals. 

Ritz Cracker Chicken,, Sheet Pan Greek Chicken,  and Slow Cooker Corn Chowder are on the menu this week.  

What are some of your favorites this week? XO 

Five Quick + Easy Breakfast Ideas

Hi friends!  Olivia has started preschool, ballet, and tap and we've been so busy lately!  September has flown by and we're official into everything fall related.  One of my favorite times of the year.  Preschool is three days a week and I need to get both kids dressed, fed (baby oatmeal for Charlotte) and ready to go early in the morning. Therefore, if you're like me and scrambling around, you'll need quick and easy breakfast ideas to keep your little ones full and keep you on time.  

1.  Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

{Image via Minimalist Baker}

2.  Baked Oatmeal

{Image via A Few Shortcuts}

3.  Hard-Boiled Eggs + Avocado

{Image via Popsugar}

4.  French Toast in a Mug

{Image via Princess Pinky Girl}

5.  Yogurt Popsicles

{Image via I Heart Nap Time} 

I love that these are all easy to prepare and can be made in advance.  In a pinch, I'll give Olivia a fruit + oatmeal squeeze pouch.  What are some of your favorite quick breakfasts? Cheers to the mamas holding everything together in the mornings ;)